10 fun and interesting Clint Eastwood facts

1. From Actor to Director

In 1971, Clint Eastwood stepped up to the plate and took over directing duties for the iconic film "Dirty Harry" when director Don Siegel fell ill. Eastwood, who was already starring in the film, took on the additional responsibility of directing until Siegel was able to return to the set. This was a pivotal moment in Eastwood's career, as it marked the beginning of his transition from actor to director.

Also → Morgan Freeman's Top 5 Films of All Time

2. Early Production on 'Absolute Power'

Clint Eastwood is renowned for his organizational skills as a director, and this was certainly evident on the set of his 1997 film "Absolute Power". His meticulous planning and attention to detail enabled him to finish production on the movie many days ahead of schedule, a feat that is rarely achieved in the film industry. His ability to stay organized and on track has been a hallmark of his directing career, and has earned him the respect of his peers.

Also → Ryan O'Neal: One of Hollywood's Most Successful Actors

3. Lifeguard and Swimming Instructor

Clint Eastwood had a unique job between 1950 and 1954 - he worked as a lifeguard and swimming instructor for the United States Army. During this time, he was responsible for ensuring the safety of soldiers in the water, as well as teaching them how to swim. This experience was a formative one for Eastwood, as it gave him the opportunity to hone his leadership skills and learn the importance of discipline.

Also → 20 Greatest Movie Stars of All Time: Arnold Schwarzenegger

4. Clint Eastwood's Gorillaz Song Becomes a Hit

In 2001, the popular virtual band Gorillaz released a song in honor of the legendary actor and director Clint Eastwood. Titled simply "Clint Eastwood," the song was a hit, reaching number four on the UK Singles Chart and number nine on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The song's success was a testament to Eastwood's enduring popularity and influence in the entertainment industry.

Also → Roberto Benigni: Actor, Director, and Screenwriter

5. 11 lb 6 oz Super Baby

When Clint Eastwood was born, he was an impressive 11 pounds and 6 ounces, making him one of the largest babies ever born in the United States at the time. His birth weight was more than double the average weight of a newborn baby, which is typically around 5.5 pounds. Eastwood's birth weight was so remarkable that it was even mentioned in his birth certificate.

Also → Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Man from Austria

6. Clint Eastwood's Favorite Actor Was The Legendary James Cagney

Clint Eastwood, the iconic actor, director, and producer, has publically declared that his favorite actor is the legendary James Cagney. Cagney, who was known for his roles in films such as 'The Public Enemy' and 'White Heat', was a major influence on Eastwood's own career, inspiring him to pursue a life in the film industry. Eastwood has often cited Cagney as one of his biggest inspirations, and has even gone so far as to say that Cagney was the actor he most admired.

Also → James Cromwell's Father Was a Renowned Film Director

7. Clint Eastwood's Commitment to His Craft

In 1999, Clint Eastwood was offered the role that Al Pacino eventually took in the film "Any Given Sunday". However, Eastwood declined the role due to the film company's refusal to let him direct the movie as well. This decision was a testament to Eastwood's commitment to his craft, as he has directed many of his own films throughout his career.

Also → Robert Redford: Iconic Hollywood Actor

8. Clint Eastwood Won't Reprise His Iconic Role as Dirty Harry

Clint Eastwood's portrayal of the iconic character "Dirty Harry" has become a classic in the film industry. Despite numerous requests from fans and interviewers alike, Eastwood has stated that he is too aged to reprise the role in any future films. His performance as the no-nonsense detective has become a timeless classic, and will remain a beloved character for years to come.

Also → Philip Seymour Hoffman Teaches Class on Directing Actors

9. Political Insider

Clint Eastwood is no stranger to politics, having openly revealed that he voted for Arnold Schwarzenegger in both the 2003 and 2006 elections for Governor of California. Eastwood's support for Schwarzenegger was made public in a 2003 interview with the Los Angeles Times, in which he stated that he was "very impressed" with Schwarzenegger's "ability to get things done". Eastwood's endorsement of Schwarzenegger was further solidified in 2006, when he once again publicly declared his support for the Governor's re-election.

Also → Toshirô Mifune: Legendary Japanese actor's first feature film

10. Actor, Director, Producer, Italian Speaker

Clint Eastwood is a multi-talented actor, director, and producer who is known for his iconic roles in films such as Dirty Harry and Gran Torino. But what many people don't know is that he is also fluent in Italian. Eastwood has been able to master the language over the years, and has even used it in some of his films, such as The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly. His fluency in Italian has allowed him to communicate with Italian actors and directors, and to better understand the culture and nuances of the language.